ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 11
If he is re-elected, Ruben Kihuen wants state lawmakers to tackle the budget crisis immediately by setting priorities for spending on education, health care and other programs regardless of their political parties.
"I don't think we can do it if we don't work together," said Kihuen, a Democrat who was elected to the Assembly District 11 seat in 2006.
Kihuen said he does not favor tax increases in the economic downturn, which is expected to persist next year.
"I don't think we need to put the burden on the taxpayers," he said.
Kihuen said he would like to bring revenue into the state by working with Nevada's delegation on renewable energy projects to create jobs and make the state more friendly to the environment.
He said he would not be willing to lay off teachers and state workers if there is not enough money to balance the budget.
"I think they serve an essential role in our state and they keep our state running," he said.
Kihuen faces Republican Ken Upp in the November election.
Upp did not return the Review-Journal's calls seeking comment.
Contact reporter Keith Rogers at krogers@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0308.
ASSEMBLY DUTIES The duties of Assembly members include passing state laws, approving the state budget and reviewing the performance of state agencies. They serve two-year terms. Candidates who prevail in this year's election will be paid $8,760 for the first 60 days of the 120-day regular legislative session. They also will receive $155 a day for living expenses and reimbursement for certain other expenses. REVIEW-JOURNAL
